Pointe du Hourdel: a natural gem in the Bay of Somme
Seal spotting at Pointe du Hourdel: a must-see moment
Pointe du Hourdel is one of the best places to spot seals in the Baie de Somme. Two species live here: the harbour seal and the grey seal.
You can see them easily from the seawall or small viewpoint—just stay quiet and keep your distance.
When to go
Seals rest on sandbanks at low tide. To boost your chances:
Check the tide times and come 90 minutes before low tide.
Bring binoculars so you don’t disturb them.
Stay at least 300 metres away so they don’t get scared.
They’re here all year round, but there are more in spring and summer.
Guided seal walks
Local guides offer escorted tours for a deeper experience. These walks are a great way to learn more about the wildlife, the plants and the unique ecosystem of the Baie de Somme, always with respect for nature.
Three ways to explore: on foot, by bike, or across the bay
La Pointe du Hourdel is a great starting point for nature lovers.
On foot
The Hourdel loop (8 km) is an easy, well-marked walk. It takes you through pebble beaches, dunes, and countryside, with stunning views of the bay.
By bike
The cycle path follows the coastline, just 400 metres from the point. You can ride to Cayeux-sur-Mer, Saint-Valery-sur-Somme, or the Hâble d’Ault.
Guided crossing
From Le Hourdel, local guides offer bay crossings on foot to Saint-Valery-sur-Somme at low tide. A one-of-a-kind experience – book ahead depending on the tides.
Tip: wear water shoes or old trainers – the bay is muddy!
These routes offer a fresh way to enjoy the coast, away from the crowds, with ever-changing views.
Useful info for visiting the Pointe du Hourdel
To enjoy your visit with peace of mind, here are a few handy tips:
Access: 10 minutes from Cayeux-sur-Mer, 20 minutes from Saint-Valery-sur-Somme. Follow the D102 road.
Parking: Free and spacious, located at the entrance to the village, near the harbour.
Toilets: Public restrooms available in high season.
Food and drink: Several seaside snack bars and restaurants.
Accessibility: The paths are suitable for all-terrain strollers. The site is flat, but some areas may be challenging for wheelchair users.
Maison de la Baie de Somme: Between Saint-Valery-sur-Somme and the Pointe du Hourdel, this centre offers exhibitions and educational trails to enhance your visit.
Check the tide times before coming, especially if you plan to spot seals or walk along the bay.
Where to stay near Pointe du Hourdel?
Just 10 minutes from Le Hourdel, Camping de la Baie in Routhiauville is a great base for exploring the area.
Run with passion by Jannick and Laurent, this campsite offers a wide range of accommodation:
Spacious, shaded camping pitches.
Fully equipped mobile homes with up to 3 bedrooms and covered or uncovered terraces.
A 60 m² holiday home with 2 bedrooms, large covered terrace, 250 m² private garden and solar panels for self-sufficient energy.
Looking for something unique? Try a ready-to-camp tent or one of two Campétoile cabins, including one perched 2.20 metres off the ground—perfect for a night under the stars.
This is a nature-focused campsite, where peace, simplicity and connection with nature take centre stage.
📍 Just 5 min from Saint-Valery-sur-Somme, 10 min from Cayeux, 400 m from the Vélomaritime cycle route.
Explore the region differently
The Baie de Somme, ranked among the most beautiful bays in the world, is full of treasures beyond Le Hourdel:
Saint-Valery-sur-Somme: a charming port, flower-filled lanes, and breathtaking bay views.
Cayeux-sur-Mer: a pebble beach, 1,200 wooden cabins, and a lively, family-friendly promenade.
Le Hâble d’Ault: less known, this natural site is worth a visit for birdwatching and stunning landscapes.
Baie de Somme Railway: hop on a steam train between Le Crotoy, Noyelles, Saint-Valery and Cayeux. A great way to see the bay from another angle.
Fancy a change of scenery? A campsite in the Baie de Somme is the perfect base to explore the region. Whether you're after a campsite in Hauts-de-France or in Picardy, you'll find just the place.
In a nutshell
La Pointe du Hourdel is a protected site full of discoveries. Whether you're here to spot seals, cycle along scenic trails or simply unwind in nature, this corner of the Baie de Somme has plenty to offer.
For a stay to remember, the Camping de la Baie in Routhiauville is a reliable choice run by two passionate hosts. It’s the perfect base for exploring the region and enjoying the essentials: fresh sea air, tidal beauty and the magic of the Bay.
